[DEEN’s Masterpieces] A Collection of Hit Songs Loved Across Generations

Entrust me with eternity.DEEN

DEEN - Entrust Me with Eternity LIVE JOY break 4

A winter song that portrays a single-minded vow to a future with a loved one.

Against the backdrop of a town where white snow falls, the protagonist’s wish for eternal love is woven through Shuichi Ikemori’s sweet, translucent vocals, leaving a deep impression on the heart.

Released in November 1993 as their fourth single, it was also featured in an NTT DoCoMo pager commercial.

It’s a captivating number with a gentle, mellow sound that seems to softly envelop winter’s chill and loneliness.

As you think of someone special, take a moment to listen to this romantic track.

In the distant skyDEEN

DEEN – In the Distant Sky

DEEN’s 14th single, a song that captures the bittersweet feelings of a long-distance relationship.

Released in February 1998, it was featured in a commercial for Japan Telecom’s “Super LCR,” which drew attention with actress Tomoko Yamaguchi’s appearance.

The frustration of only being able to connect by phone—and the pure longing to hear a loved one’s voice—is delicately expressed through Shuichi Ikemori’s clear, resonant vocals.

On nights when you’re thinking of someone dear who lives far away, lend your ears to this lyrical world.

Don’t avert your eyes.DEEN

DEEN “Don’t Avert Your Eyes (DEEN The Best DX)” Music Video Short ver.

This is DEEN’s fifth single, a million-seller and a refreshing summer anthem that was featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial.

The lyrics, written by ZARD’s Izumi Sakai, candidly express the wish “Don’t look away,” even as the narrator is bewildered by changes in their lover.

Many listeners may feel their hearts tighten at this straightforward emotion.

Shuichi Ikemori’s soaring vocals resonate over the sparkling melodies characteristic of the Being sound.

In fact, Ikemori himself reportedly felt a bit embarrassed by the breeziness at the time.

Perhaps that very purity is the charm that continues to shine today.

Christmas timeDEEN

DEEN “Christmas time <spur style>” from ‘SPUR’ Teaser Movie

A winter ballad whose magnificent strings color the holy night and resonate in the heart.

Released on a maxi single in November 1999 as the opening of the Classics series, this piece was also used as the ending theme for the TBS program “Wonderful.” Set against the snow-covered streets of one’s hometown, it paints a romantic scene that speaks tenderly of pure love for someone special.

Shuichi Ikemori’s endlessly clear vocals blend with a beautifully orchestral sound to create a pure, pristine world.

It’s the perfect number for strolling through streets glittering with illuminations or for spending a cozy winter night at home.

Beyond sorrowDEEN

Beyond the Sorrow [DEEN] kanashimi no mukōgawa

It’s a ballad that gently lights a small lamp in the hearts of those sunk in deep sorrow.

Rather than trying to cheer someone up by force, the lyrics speak to them by simply staying by their side and inviting them to believe together in the hope that lies ahead—words that truly resonate.

Released in November 2000 as DEEN’s 21st single, the song was used as the theme for the drama “Kōfuku no Ashita” (Tomorrow of Happiness).

It opens with a quiet acoustic tone, then gradually builds into a fuller band sound in a dramatic structure that mirrors the clearing of a troubled heart.

Listen to it when times are tough, and you’ll surely find the courage to face tomorrow.

love without responseDEEN

DEEN – Love Without Response (Music Video)

Released in November 1998, this is DEEN’s 16th single, also known as an advance single from the acclaimed album “The DAY.” It was used as the ending theme for TBS’s “Kinniku Banzuke,” and as DEEN’s first release after changing labels, it’s a particularly significant work for the band.

Knowing it’s a love that can’t go anywhere, the protagonist is torn between guilt over throwing the other person into confusion just by existing and the feelings that keep growing stronger nonetheless.

Set to a wistful melody, Shuichi Ikemori’s vocals pour out a sense of helplessness that strikes the heart, making this a number with a strong rock flavor.

StardropDEEN

DEEN – Starlight Drops

A warm ballad that gently wraps around a tired heart.

Included on the album “UTOPIA,” released in November 2003, this song portrays the protagonist’s deep love for someone dear who lives far away.

Many listeners will likely be moved as the quiet piano intro swells into a grand band sound layered with strings.

This piece was created as the theme song for the film “Kimi no Mama de,” in which members of DEEN themselves appeared.

If you ever feel like you’re pushing yourself too hard on your own, give it a listen.